University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

November 16, 2007

NDA Seeks Specialty Crop Grant Proposals

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) is seeking grant proposals from organizations or groups of individuals interested in enhancing the competitiveness of the state’s specialty crop industry. Specialty crops are defined as fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and nursery crops (including floriculture).

“Specialty crops are an important segment of Nebraska agriculture,” NDA Director Greg Ibach said. “This funding can help producers with important research, marketing outreach, or other initiatives designed to increase opportunities for the specialty crop industry.”

NDA is requesting the grant proposals as part of its effort to develop a state plan for the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The USDA program was created by Congress in 2004. For the 2007 funding cycle, NDA can receive up to $104,133 for specialty crops, but must submit a state plan detailing how the funds will be used.

Grant proposals will be considered on a competitive basis. Those that NDA selects for inclusion in the specialty crop state plan must also be reviewed by USDA. Applications are due to NDA by noon on Friday, January 11, 2008.

According to USDA guidelines, eligible projects must enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and may focus on research, promotion, marketing, nutrition, trade enhancement, food safety, food security, plant health programs, education, and “buy local” programs, among other opportunities. The grant proposal must show the project will benefit the specialty crop industry, or a segment of the industry, as a whole; proposals that will profitably benefit one organization or individual will not be accepted.

For grant proposal guidelines and application information, please visit www.agr.ne.gov or call 800-422-6692. USDA guidance on this program, including specific examples of eligible specialty crops, can be found at www.ams.usda.gov/fv/scbgp.html.

Nebraska Department of Agriculture News Release

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Published by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperating with the counties and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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